The National Olama Alliance alleged that its human chain outside the National Press Club in the capital was attacked on Saturday under the leadership of Aminul Islam Imon, a Dhaka South leader of Swechchhasebak Dal. In a statement, the organisation said its convener Ashraf Uddin Mahdi, Dhaka South convener Mahmud Hasan and several central leaders were attacked.

The previously announced programme was held to protest the gouging out of Alif's eye in Habiganj, attacks on National Citizen Party activists in different parts of the country, and alleged attacks on the alliance's Dinaj Minhaz in Kurigram and Shah Alam in Netrokona. The report said video footage showed Chhatra Dal leader Hadis Hawlader and Swechchhasebak Dal leader Farhad Islam leading the attack.

Sources said that after the human chain began following Asr prayers, a group led by Imon held a daytime torch procession drill carrying sticks. They later approached participants while chanting slogans including “bhua bhua.” Mahdi alleged the attack occurred in the presence of police and said a press release was snatched. Mahmud Hasan urged the administration to ensure the right to peaceful programmes and expression.